Wondering how to take bike grips off your handlebars? It’s a straightforward process with the right techniques and a few common tools.
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Getting Started: What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather your supplies. Having everything ready makes the job much easier. Here are the most common tools for bike grips:
- Flathead screwdriver: This is your primary tool for lifting the grip.
- Compressed air: A can of compressed air can be a lifesaver for some grip types.
- Rubbing alcohol or window cleaner: These solutions act as lubricants.
- Rag or shop towel: For wiping away any mess.
- Gloves: To protect your hands, especially if using cleaning solvents.
- Pliers (optional): For stubborn grips or removing sticky grips.
- Razor blade or utility knife (use with extreme caution!): Only for grips you plan to discard.
- Degreaser or solvent (for grip glue removal): If the grips were glued on.
- New grips: If you’re doing a handlebar grip replacement.
The Easiest Method: Using Air or Lubricant
This is the preferred method for most modern bike grips, especially those made of soft rubber or silicone. It allows you to save your grips for later, which is great for bike grip maintenance or temporary changes.
Method 1: The Compressed Air Trick
Compressed air works by creating a thin layer of air between the grip and the handlebar, reducing friction.
- Find the Grip’s Edge: Locate the edge of the grip where it meets the handlebar.
- Insert the Nozzle: Carefully insert the nozzle of your compressed air can under the edge of the grip. You want to get it as far in as possible without damaging the grip material.
- Apply Air: Gently and steadily spray the compressed air into the gap. You should hear a hissing sound as the air fills the space.
- Work it Around: As you spray, slowly rotate the can nozzle and try to work it around the entire circumference of the grip. The grip should start to loosen and slide.
- Wiggle and Slide: Once the air has started to get under the grip, you can try gently wiggling the grip back and forth while continuing to spray air. It should begin to slide off the handlebar.
- Patience is Key: If it doesn’t come off immediately, try applying air from different angles.
Pro Tip: If your grip has a small hole or vent on the end, you might be able to insert the air nozzle there to inflate the grip from the inside.
Method 2: The Lubricant Slide
Rubbing alcohol or window cleaner acts as a lubricant, making the grip slippery enough to slide off.
- Gather Your Lubricant: Have your rubbing alcohol or window cleaner ready, along with a rag.
- Apply to the Edge: Squirt a small amount of lubricant around the edge of the grip where it meets the handlebar.
- Work it In: Use your screwdriver to gently lift the edge of the grip slightly, allowing the lubricant to seep underneath. You can also try tilting the bike so the lubricant runs down into the grip.
- Twist and Pull: Once the lubricant has had a moment to work, grasp the grip firmly and try to twist it. As you twist, gently pull the grip away from the handlebar.
- Add More if Needed: If the grip is still stuck, add a little more lubricant and repeat the twisting and pulling motion.
Important Note: This method works best on grips that aren’t excessively sticky or glued in place.
The Screwdriver Method: For Stubborn Grips
When air and lubricant don’t do the trick, a screwdriver can help you pry the grip off. This method carries a higher risk of damaging the grip, so proceed with caution.
Using a Flathead Screwdriver
- Choose the Right Screwdriver: A flathead screwdriver with a relatively thin but strong blade is ideal.
- Locate a Starting Point: Find the seam or edge of the grip, usually at the end of the handlebar.
- Gently Pry: Insert the tip of the screwdriver under the edge of the grip. You want to create a small gap between the grip and the handlebar. Be careful not to force the screwdriver too hard, as you could tear the grip or scratch the handlebar.
- Apply Lubricant (Optional but Recommended): Once you have a small gap, squirt a little rubbing alcohol or window cleaner into it. This will help the grip slide over the handlebar.
- Work the Screwdriver Around: Slowly and carefully work the screwdriver around the circumference of the grip, widening the gap. The goal is to loosen the grip’s hold on the handlebar.
- Twist and Pull: As you create more space, try to twist the grip while gently pulling it off. You might need to use your other hand to help guide it.
- Use Pliers (Carefully): If the grip is very tight, you can try using pliers to grip the end of the grip and twist it off. Be sure to wrap a rag around the grip first to protect it.
Caution: Avoid inserting the screwdriver too deeply or forcing it at an angle that could damage the handlebar or the grip itself.
Dealing with Glued Grips
Some grips, especially on older bikes or for more permanent installations, are attached with grip glue. Removing these can be trickier.
Grip Glue Removal Strategies
- Soften the Glue: Try applying rubbing alcohol or a dedicated grip glue remover to the seam of the grip. Let it soak in for a few minutes to soften the adhesive.
- Pry and Twist: Use the screwdriver method described above, but be prepared for more resistance. You may need to reapply the solvent multiple times.
- Heat (Use with Extreme Caution): In some cases, a gentle application of heat from a hairdryer can help soften old glue. Do not use a heat gun, as it can melt the grips or damage the handlebar. Hold the hairdryer a few inches away and apply heat to the area where the grip meets the handlebar. Then, try the screwdriver method again.
- Cutting the Grip (Last Resort): If the grip is absolutely stuck and you plan on replacing it, you can carefully cut it off. Use a sharp razor blade or utility knife and make a single, shallow cut along the length of the grip. Be very careful not to cut into the handlebar. Once cut, you should be able to peel or pry the grip off.
Special Considerations for Motorcycle Grips
While the basic principles are similar, motorcycle grip removal often involves thicker, more durable grips and sometimes stronger adhesives.
- Thicker Materials: Motorcycle grips are often made of tougher rubber compounds, making them less prone to tearing than bike grips.
- Stronger Adhesives: Motorcycle grip glue can be more robust. You might need a stronger solvent or more time to let it soak.
- Handlebar Inserts: Some motorcycles have internal components in the handlebars that you need to be mindful of when prying.
- Throttle Tube: On the throttle side, the grip is often bonded to a plastic throttle tube. Be extra careful not to damage this tube during removal, as it’s crucial for throttle operation. The lubricant method or compressed air are usually the best first steps.
Cleaning Your Handlebars After Grip Removal
Once the old grips are off, it’s essential to clean the handlebars. This is especially important if you’re installing new grips and want them to adhere properly or just for general bike grip maintenance.
Best Practices for Cleaning Handlebar Grips Areas
- Remove Residue: Use a rag with rubbing alcohol or a degreaser to wipe down the handlebars. This will remove any leftover grip glue, dirt, or grime.
- Inspect for Damage: Check your handlebars for any scratches or damage that might have occurred during grip removal.
- Dry Thoroughly: Ensure the handlebars are completely dry before installing new grips. Any moisture can affect adhesion.
Reinstalling Bike Grips
Putting new grips on is usually easier than taking the old ones off. Here’s how to do it correctly for a secure fit:
Reinstalling Bike Grips: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Handlebar and Grips: Clean the handlebar as mentioned above. If your new grips require it, prepare them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Use Adhesive (Optional but Recommended): For a truly secure fit, especially for performance riding or aggressive terrain, using grip glue or even hairspray can be beneficial.
- Grip Glue: Apply a thin, even layer to the inside of the grip or the handlebar.
- Hairspray: A quick spray inside the grip can provide enough tackiness.
- Rubbing Alcohol (for slip-on): For grips that are designed to be slid on, a small amount of rubbing alcohol inside the grip can help them slide into place. They will evaporate and create a snug fit.
- Align the Grips: Position the new grips on the handlebars, ensuring they are straight and in your preferred riding position.
- Slide Them On: Push the grips onto the handlebars.
- If using glue or hairspray, twist and push them on simultaneously.
- If using alcohol as a slip agent, they should slide on easily.
- Position and Set: Once the grips are on, adjust their final position. If you used glue, let it cure according to the product instructions before riding. If you used hairspray or alcohol, it will set relatively quickly.
- Check for Security: Give the grips a good tug to make sure they are firmly attached and won’t twist when you ride.
Bike Grip Maintenance Tips
Proper bike grip maintenance can extend the life of your grips and ensure a comfortable, secure hold.
- Regular Cleaning: Wipe down your grips periodically with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove dirt and sweat. This also helps prevent removing sticky grips that can become gummy over time.
- Inspect for Wear: Check your grips for signs of wear, such as thinning rubber, tears, or a loss of texture. Replace them if they are compromised.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Unless you’re specifically dealing with grip glue removal, avoid using harsh solvents or degreasers on your grips, as they can degrade the material.
- Storage: Store your bike in a place that doesn’t expose the grips to extreme heat or direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as this can cause them to degrade and become brittle or overly sticky.
When to Consider Handlebar Grip Replacement
There are several reasons why you might need to perform a handlebar grip replacement:
- Wear and Tear: Over time, grips can wear down, lose their grip, and become uncomfortable.
- Damage: Tears, cuts, or excessive wear can compromise the grip’s function and appearance.
- Comfort: You might simply want a different feel or thickness of grip for better comfort and control.
- Hygiene: Grips can become very dirty and difficult to clean effectively.
- Upgrades: New grips can be a relatively inexpensive way to customize your bike’s look and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I reuse my old bike grips?
A1: Yes, if they are not damaged and you’re careful during removal. The compressed air or lubricant methods are best for preserving grips. If you had to use a screwdriver or cut them, they are likely compromised and should be replaced.
Q2: What is the best way to remove really sticky grips?
A2: For removing sticky grips, the compressed air method is often the most effective. If that fails, try liberal amounts of rubbing alcohol. If they were installed with strong adhesive, you might need a solvent specifically for grip glue removal. As a last resort, carefully cutting them off is an option.
Q3: Do I need special tools for bike grips?
A3: For most bicycle grip removal, a simple flathead screwdriver and some compressed air or rubbing alcohol are sufficient. If you plan on handlebar grip replacement, you might want to have grip glue or a strong adhesive on hand for installation.
Q4: My grips feel really dry and hard. What happened?
A4: This can happen due to age, exposure to sunlight, or certain cleaning products. It makes them more prone to cracking when you try to remove them. If they are this brittle, replacement is usually the best option, and you might need to cut them off carefully.
Q5: How do I clean handlebars after removing old grips?
A5: After removing old grips, clean the handlebars thoroughly with rubbing alcohol or a mild degreaser to remove any residual adhesive or dirt. Ensure the handlebars are completely dry before installing new grips. This is a key part of good bike grip maintenance.